Warkentin, Ernest D. (1926-1972)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1972 Jul 6 p. 2

Birth date: 1926

text of obituary:

California Builder Killed While Working On Steel Structure

Winton, Calif. — What was believed the largest funeral ever held at the Winton [sic Church of the] Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, took place June 17 as services were held for Ernest D. Warkentin, 46, local builder who died in an accident June 13.

Nearly 1,000 persons attended the services, conducted by Min. John Jantz and Min. John Wiens.

Mr. Warkentin, owner and operated of Mid-Valley Steel Builders here, was directing his crew in the erection of a large steel building in the Amsterdam area northeast of Winton when the fatal accident occurred. He was on a steel beam 24 feet above the concrete floor when he accidentally touched a nearby 12,000-volt power line, causing him to fall to the cement floor. It is believed electric shock caused instant death.

Survivors include his widow and nine children, his invalid mother, two sisters and three brothers.